Using a Runner to Define Space

This amazing home by Fernlund + Logan Architects uses striped runners in abundance, and we love the effect. Runners decorate the home's hallways and rooms, defining space without dividing it. To get the same look in your own home, we recommend an inexpensive option...

The striped Unni Rug from IKEA is just $20. Sew a few together, end-to-end, and you've got a custom runner. If you're looking for something less colorful and more like the rug shown above, check out IKEA's Admete and Hessum rugs, or the Richmond Stripe Rug (currently on clearance) at the Company Store. For more options, see AT's roundup of Colorful Striped IKEA Rugs.

Photos: Fernlund + Logan, Anna's Old-and-New Newburgh Victorian

Comments (6)

Runners can also make a world of difference when used as kitchen mats: http://stylenorth.ca/blog/2008/11/inspiration-go-big-with-kitchen-mats/

Am I the only one who doesn't like the runner in the top picture? The rug itself is nice, but it gives the impression of a narrow passageway, completely undoing the effect of the extra-wide doors, and cutting everything on the left from the rest of the room.

First picture looks like a runway at O'Hare...

Lisa Hunter, i thought the same thing.
it struck me as too narrow for the space.

Exactly what I felt, bepsf.

I love runners. One in front of the sofa keeps the carpet/floor from getting dirty, and it doesn't overwhelm the room like a big rug might.

I have one next to my bed. It "fits" there, much better than a small rectangle of rug.

My bathroom is long and narrow....a runner is perfect. Any other rug would just resemble a towel left on the floor.

The best thing about runners is that they're often on clearance....and I can afford a better quality one than I could a larger rug.